Description
Duration: 40-50 min
Sympathetic Strings (working title) is a new composition by Bendik Giske (NO) in collaboration with instrument builder Úlfur Hansson (IS) commissioned for the 2025 Venice Music Biennale.
Elaborating on a research project and subsequent performance commissioned by Sequences International Art Festival in Reykjavik october 2023, this composition makes use of an array of electromagnetically activated sympathetic strings suspended across the room. Strings of varying length and tension will hold a variation of possible resonances across the frequency spectrum. With a well considered system of gates and a user interface, these can be activated individually or collectively during the performance.
Currently in early development, the compositions elaborates on the saxophone and voice, as performed by Giske, in a physical sound installation with spatial qualities, allowing for resonances to travel throughout the performance space, creating a bespoke sonic environment for both listeners and performer to explore.
Previous research has highlighted both the capabilities and limitations of the sonic extension of the instrument, providing a unique sonic environment to create within - the installation becomes the instrumentation which informs the compositional work.
By involving Giskes steady collaborator, Baumgartner, in the process of installing on site and illuminating the installation and performance, the visual impression becomes that of a resonating spider web suspended throughout the space.
The installation is capable of playing a recording of the performance as an impression of what has previously happened. If the installation becomes a part of a tour similiar to Metabolic Rift, this could be experienced as a resonating space carring the memory of previous interventions. (Seen in video 3)
Pending a more thorough conceptual treatment, this composition is intended as a contemplative space of sympathetic resonance as an appeal for empathic connections in a time of substantial cultural and ideological divisions. Powered by breath, and elaborated upon by an eco-system of sympathetic strings and resonating bodies.
Team
Bendik Giske - composition and performance
Úlfur Hansson - sympathetic string installation
Instrument designer - TBD (aid in the shaping and building of parts like bridge and resonance boxes)
Sound director - Bridget Ferrill or Wouter Jaspers (TBD)
Light and stage director - Theresa Baumgartner (Venice resident)
Costume: Andra Dumitrascu / Nicole Walker / TBD
Producer - TBD
Installation architect (on site)- TBD
Technical
Approx. 8-16 high-tension metallic strings are suspended throughout the space.
The installations are best mounted on a permanent structure to avoid intrusive ballast rigs as the strings hold high tension. Please advise on possible locations.
Úlfur will develop a proposal including material costs.
Preliminary tech drawing below to give an impression, pending a more thorough description.
Development stages / timeline
January
Budgeting
February - April
Location visit
Concept development
Composing / repertoire development
Preliminary material research and sourcing
Funding applications (?)
June - July
Workshop 2-3 weeks (please advise on possible location)
August
Composition work
Problem solving
October
Final pre-production
Premiere